Best Exfoliating Toner For Sensitive Skin (2024 Update)
Finding the right exfoliating toner is crucial for those with sensitive skin. With the wide array of products available, it can be challenging to know which will provide the best results without irritation. When searching for the ideal exfoliating toner, there are a few key factors to consider.
First, examine the ingredient list closely. It’s best to avoid toners with harsh ingredients like alcohol, synthetic fragrances, and sulfates, as these can disrupt the skin’s protective barrier and cause redness or inflammation. Instead, look for gentle, natural ingredients like glycolic acid, lactic acid, or fruit enzymes that will remove dead skin cells without stripping the skin. Start with lower percentages around 5% before gradually increasing strength as your skin builds tolerance.
It’s also important to pay attention to pH level, as toners with lower pH around 3-4 are ideal for exfoliation while higher levels above 6 can irritate and dry out sensitive complexions. Consider your own skin type as well. If your skin veers on the drier side, search for a more hydrating, creamy formula. For oilier skin, look for watery, clarifying options.
When starting a new exfoliating toner, remember to listen to your skin. Introduce it slowly, using only a few times per week before daily use. Watch for signs of irritation like stinging, burning, or increased redness and discontinue use if these occur. With patience in finding the right product and proper use, an exfoliating toner can reveal smoother, glowing, balanced skin.
10 Best Exfoliating Toner For Sensitive Skin
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It is an AHA BHA toner that exfoliates gently and helps unclog pores and reduce pigmentation, ideal for sensitive skin.
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2
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Glycolic Acid is ideal for exfoliating and improving the texture and appearance of skin.
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3
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Ideal for hydrating, exfoliating, and balancing oily or sensitive skin with its low-molecular hyaluronic acid formula and alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and colorant-free qualities.
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4
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This product is ideal for hydrating and exfoliating the skin while being safe for sensitive skin types.
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5
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This product is ideal for exfoliating and clarifying the skin, addressing issues such as acne, blackheads, and uneven texture.
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6
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Ideal for minimizing pores and improving skin texture, with the added benefit of exfoliating properties.
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7
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It is ideal for improving skin texture, reducing whiteheads and pore size, and providing gentle exfoliation.
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8
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This product is ideal for people looking for an acne toner that exfoliates, prevents breakouts, and soothes skin without alcohol or sulfates.
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9
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Ideal for improving skin texture and hydration, gentle chemical exfoliation of sensitive skin, and PHA formulation.
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10
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Ideal for those with sensitive skin, these toner pads provide gentle peeling, exfoliating, toning, pore-tightening, and clearing benefits.
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1. Gentleskin Prep: Wishtrend's Mandelic Acid Toner
The Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water is a hydrating and gentle exfoliant that can be used daily to improve the skin's tone and texture. With a pH of 5.0 ± 1.0, this exfoliating treatment is formulated with Mandelic Acid, an AHA ingredient that is safe to use even on sensitive skin without causing any irritation.
This skin prep water helps to improve pigmentation, making it an excellent choice for those looking to even out their skin tone. It also works as a mild exfoliator that removes dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, revealing a brighter and smoother complexion.
One of the unique features of Mandelic Acid is its large molecular size, which makes it less likely to cause any irritation to the skin. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want to avoid harsh chemical exfoliation.
The Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water comes in a package that has been renewed with slight changes to wording, design, and color. It is available in a 120ml (4.05 oz) bottle and is cruelty-free, vegan-friendly, ethanol-free, paraben-free, silicon-free, steroid-free, artificial coloring-free, and artificial fragrance-free.
2. Glycolic Acid
This Age Defying, Skin Firming & Pore Refining Toner is designed to rejuvenate your skin, minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and enlarged pores. Formulated at a concentration of 7% and a pH of 3.6, this toner is a powerhouse of AHA that works as a gentle exfoliant, breaking down dead skin buildup that clogs pores, revealing clear and glowing skin.
Not only does it help brighten and even out skin tone, but it also works as a skin prep for further treatment or use of serums. Additionally, it removes residual makeup, making it the perfect addition to any skincare routine.
This facial toner is combined with the benefits of aloe vera, cucumber, hyaluronic acid, rosemary oil, clover flower extract, and green tea extract, which help repair dry skin, tighten pores, fight blemishes, and sop up oil.
Suitable for all skin types, this alcohol-free toner with its pH value of 3.6 makes it work best on all skin types without dryness or irritation while controlling oil. It is suitable for oily skin, normal, dry, or combination, making it the perfect gift for your loved ones.
This product is proudly made in the USA and formulated with vegan ingredients without any parabens or unsafe ingredients in a GMP certified manufacturing facility. It is cruelty-free and not tested on animals. While it is gentle and suitable for all skin types, the manufacturer understands that every skin is unique. If for any reason, the customer is not satisfied, they can contact the manufacturer, who will be happy to make it right for them.
3. Hydramist Low-Ph Hyaluronic Toner: Nourish And Refine
The Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Toner is a premium product that delivers excellent hydration, texture improvement, and skin preparation. This lightweight formula is quickly absorbed deep into the skin, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a quick and easy way to achieve a refreshed complexion.
One of the key features of this toner is the 5D Complex Hyaluronic Acid. This ingredient comes in five different molecular sizes, enabling it to penetrate deeply and immediately into the skin. The 3D networks built by this complex ensure that hydration and moisturization are maintained to plump the skin, leaving it looking and feeling youthful.
The Dive-In Toner is a soothing water-based formula that is super lightweight and moisturizes the skin without causing any greasiness or irritation. This toner is perfect for anyone who wants to prep their skin perfectly for the next steps of their skincare routine. The Dive-In skincare line is particularly suitable for oily and dehydrated skin types.
The formula of this toner is hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin. It is free of artificial fragrance, colorants, parabens, mineral oils, isopropyl alcohol, and other potentially harmful ingredients. The Dive-In Toner has been tested to be non-irritating for the skin, making it ideal for anyone with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
The goal of this product is to provide clean, safe, and sustainable beauty to consumers. The Dive-In Toner is certified vegan, and the packaging is FSC certified. The brand is committed to ensuring that all of their products are cruelty-free and do not contain any animal-derived ingredients.
4. Moon Glow Dream Toner – Hydrates & Exfoliates!
The Moon Glow Milky Toner from Good Light is the ultimate solution for those looking for a hydrating, nourishing, and soothing face toner that also promotes healthy skin barrier function. With gentle exfoliating properties, this toner leaves your complexion looking radiant, just like a full moon.
This milky toner is specifically designed to improve skin barrier function and reduce inflammation. It works by smoothing off dead skin cells and deeply moisturizing the skin. Additionally, it is pH balanced, which helps with dryness and strengthens the skin. The toner is made with natural, skin-loving ingredients, including hyaluronic acid and snow mushroom that provide deep hydration to your skin, ceramides that fortify the skin barrier, meadowfoam seed oil that helps to heal and niacinamide that protects and regrows lipids.
To use, simply dispense the toner onto your hands or a cotton round and massage into your skin after cleansing. The milky toner will balance the pH of your skin and replenish moisture. It is gentle enough for day and night use.
Good Light believes in beauty beyond the binary and creates highly efficacious yet gentle personal care products that are suitable for all people, regardless of gender identity. Their products are vegan, cruelty-free, and free from BPAs, parabens, phthalates, and more.
5. Cosrx Aha/bha Clarifying Treatment
Introducing the Gentle Exfoliating Toner, a game-changing formula that revitalizes the skin with the power of AHA, BHA, and purifying botanical ingredients. This toner is a must-have in every skincare regimen, as it improves skin texture, enhances skin vitality and controls pores.
Say goodbye to dullness and dead skin cells with the 0.1% AHA Glycolic Acid and BHA Betaine Salicylate that gently exfoliate the skin, leaving it refreshed, soothed, and softened. This toner is perfect for daily use on all skin types, thanks to its natural ingredients such as 10% Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Water and Salix Alba (Willow Bark) Water.
For an extra boost of hydration, use the Gentle Exfoliating Toner as a toner mask. Simply saturate a cotton pad with the toner and apply it to your face for immediate hydration.
When it comes to skincare, it's important to choose products that are gentle and effective. The Gentle Exfoliating Toner meets COSRX standards and is formulated with skin-friendly ingredients that alleviate irritated skin. This toner is hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, and animal testing-free. Plus, it's paraben-free, sulfate-free, and phthalates-free, making it a safe and reliable choice for all skin types.
6. Biossance Squalane + Bha Pore Minimizing
The Biossance Squalane + BHA Pore Minimizing Toner is a game changer in the world of skincare. Designed to provide you with clearer and smaller-looking pores, this toner ensures that your skin stays refreshed without the risk of tightness or dryness.
The toner works by mildly exfoliating the skin to remove excess oil, dirt and debris. This leaves your skin feeling soft, hydrated and calmer. The pore minimizing toner is also effective in calming inflammation and dissolving dead skin cells, ensuring that you get a smooth, flawless look.
The Biossance Squalane + BHA Pore Minimizing Toner is made with gentle and effective ingredients, making it safe and non-irritating. The toner contains white willowbark extract, which is a natural beta hydroxy acid that exfoliates and unclogs pores. Squalane, another key ingredient, provides weightless and fast-absorbing hydration.
This toner is an essential part of your daily nontoxic skincare routine. After cleansing, simply pour the toner onto a cotton pad and gently swipe over clean skin. Alternatively, you may pour it into your palm and gently pat over skin. Follow with sunscreen during the day for best results.
As part of Biossance's commitment to high standards for your skin and the environment, all products are vegan, cruelty free and made without paraben or synthetic fragrances or PEG. So, you can rest assured that you are using a clean beauty product that is safe for both you and the environment.
7. Korean Skincare: Exfoliating Toner For Radiant Skin
The Gentle Exfoliating Toner is a must-have for anyone looking to improve their skin texture, vitality, and control pores. This toner is formulated with AHA, BHA, and purifying botanical ingredients that work together to leave your skin feeling refreshed, soft, and soothed.
With 0.1% of AHA Glycolic Acid and BHA Betaine Salicylate, this toner effectively removes dullness and dead skin cells to reveal brighter and smoother skin. Additionally, this toner is made with natural ingredients like 10% Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Water and Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water, making it gentle enough for daily use on all skin types.
For those looking for an extra boost of hydration, this toner can also be used as a toner mask. Simply saturate a cotton pad with the toner and let it sit on your face for immediate hydration.
This toner is made with COSRX standards in mind, ensuring that it contains only skin-friendly ingredients that alleviate irritated skin. It is hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested, and has not been tested on animals. Additionally, it is paraben-free, sulfate-free, and phthalate-free.
8. Clear Skin Tonic With Peach Slices
Achieving clear, smooth, and healthy-looking skin is now made possible with this gentle yet effective acne toner. The toner is formulated to tone, exfoliate, and balance the skin's natural oils. With this toner, you can say goodbye to redness, uneven skin tone, and breakouts.
The toner's rapid-action formula contains 2% salicylic acid, which helps clear and prevent breakouts. It is specially designed to exfoliate the skin, decongest pores, and smooth textural irregularities. This gentle formula is ideal for all skin types and works to reduce redness and uneven skin tone.
Aside from salicylic acid, the toner also contains glycolic acid and lactic acid, which clarify and refine stubborn pores. The toner's cica and allantoin components also help soothe and reduce signs of redness, while antioxidant-rich acerola and refreshing cucumber reduce external stress.
Using this acne exfoliating toner is part of a 3-step acne regimen that helps achieve beautiful, clear, and confident skin. It is Step 2 in your daily face wash routine, following the Acne Clarifying Cleaner and before the Acne Oil-Free Moisturizer.
The toner's clean formula is made from plant-based ingredients and is sulfate-free, alcohol-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, gluten-free, vegan, cruelty-free, and Leaping Bunny certified. With this toner, you can be confident that you are using a product that is not only effective but also safe and eco-friendly.
9. Pha Skin Smoothing Toner
The INKEY List Polyhydroxy Acid Toner is a gentle chemical exfoliant suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It effectively removes dead skin cells from the surface and locks in moisture for lasting hydration.
Say Hello to Smoother Skin. The formula of this toner works beneath the surface to enhance the texture of your skin, leaving you with a smoother and more radiant complexion.
Real Results with Powerful Ingredients. The toner contains a combination of powerful ingredients that work together to give you the best results. Niacinamide is included to reduce excess oil and improve uneven tone, PHA helps improve skin texture, and Aloe Vera leaf juice delicately soothes the skin.
Easy to Use. The INKEY List Polyhydroxy Acid Toner is effortless to use. Simply use it in the morning and evening after cleansing and hydrating. Saturate a cotton pad with the toner and sweep it across your face and neck. There's no need to rinse off.
Your Skincare Journey is Our Priority. At INKEY List, they believe that better knowledge powers better decisions. Skincare is a journey, and they are committed to walking with you every step of the way.
10. Gentle Apple Clearing Toner Pads
If you're looking for a way to achieve radiant, glowing skin, look no further than the gentle peeling toner pad from GOODAL. This innovative product is specially designed to manage dead skin cells and provide an instant improvement in skin texture and pore appearance.
One of the key benefits of this toner pad is that it allows you to exfoliate daily without experiencing any irritations. This is thanks to the malic acids derived from Jonathan Apples and the low dose of AHA (0.5%) in the formula. These natural ingredients work together to remove dead skin cells, reduce the size of enlarged pores, and soothe inflamed skin.
In addition to its skin-improving properties, the Apple AHA Clearing Toner Pad is also an all-in-one total solution for face and body care. The pads are larger than generic cotton pads, making them perfect for use on the body as well as the face. They're also made from natural, pure cotton and are gentle enough for use on sensitive skin.
What's more, this toner pad features an adorable apple shape that adds a playful touch to your skincare routine. And because it's part of the Apple AHA Clearing line from GOODAL, you can see even more enhanced results by pairing it with other products in the line.
Best Exfoliating Toner For Sensitive Skin FAQs
Are there any natural exfoliating toners that are safe for sensitive skin?
Yes, there are several natural exfoliating toners that are safe for sensitive skin. One option is witch hazel, which is a natural astringent that helps to remove dead skin cells and tighten pores. Another option is apple cider vinegar, which has natural alpha hydroxy acids that gently exfoliate the skin. Aloe vera is also a great natural exfoliator that is gentle on sensitive skin. It contains natural enzymes that help to remove dead skin cells, while also soothing and hydrating the skin. Additionally, rose water is a gentle natural toner that helps to balance the skin's pH and remove dead skin cells. It is also known for its calming and soothing properties, making it a great option for sensitive skin. When using any new product on sensitive skin, it is important to patch test first and to consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns.
Can exfoliating toners be used daily on sensitive skin?
Exfoliating toners are a great addition to a skincare routine, as they help remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover for a brighter and smoother complexion. However, for individuals with sensitive skin, daily use of exfoliating toners may not be suitable.
Exfoliating toners typically contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), which can be harsh on sensitive skin and cause irritation, redness, and dryness. It is best to start with using exfoliating toners once or twice a week and gradually increasing the frequency if your skin can tolerate it.
If you have sensitive skin, it is important to choose an exfoliating toner that is formulated for your skin type. Look for gentle exfoliants such as lactic acid or mandelic acid, which are less likely to cause irritation. Additionally, it is essential to follow up with a moisturizer to hydrate and soothe the skin.
In summary, while exfoliating toners can be beneficial for sensitive skin, it is important to use them cautiously and choose a gentle formula that works well for your skin type.
Can exfoliating toners help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on sensitive skin?
Exfoliating toners can be helpful in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on sensitive skin, but it is important to choose the right product and use it correctly. Some exfoliating toners can be too harsh and cause irritation on sensitive skin, which can actually make fine lines and wrinkles more noticeable. It is important to look for toners that contain gentle exfoliating ingredients, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), and avoid those that contain physical exfoliants like scrubs or beads. It is also important to use exfoliating toners in moderation, as overuse can damage the skin's protective barrier and cause further sensitivity. It is recommended to use exfoliating toners no more than two to three times per week, and to always follow up with a moisturizer to hydrate and protect the skin. Consulting with a dermatologist or skincare professional can also help in choosing the right exfoliating toner for sensitive skin.
How often should I use an exfoliating toner on my sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin requires a gentle approach when it comes to exfoliation. Exfoliating toners can be a great addition to your skincare routine, as they can help to remove dead skin cells that can lead to clogged pores and dull-looking skin. However, it's important to use them correctly to avoid irritating your skin.
As a general rule, it's recommended to use an exfoliating toner on sensitive skin no more than twice a week. If you find that your skin becomes red, inflamed, or irritated after use, reduce the frequency to once a week or even less frequently.
It's also important to choose an exfoliating toner that is specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Look for products that contain gentle exfoliants, such as lactic acid or salicylic acid, which are less likely to cause irritation.
Remember to always patch test new products before incorporating them into your routine, and listen to your skin. If you notice any signs of irritation, stop using the product and consult with a dermatologist.
What are the benefits of using an exfoliating toner for sensitive skin?
Exfoliating toners are a great addition to any skincare routine, but for those with sensitive skin, choosing the right one can be a challenge. However, there are many benefits to using an exfoliating toner for sensitive skin.
Firstly, an exfoliating toner can help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can lead to smoother, brighter and clearer skin. This is particularly important for those with sensitive skin, as a build-up of dead skin cells can lead to irritation and breakouts.
Secondly, exfoliating toners can help to increase cell turnover, which can improve the overall texture and tone of the skin. This is especially beneficial for those with sensitive skin, as it can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Finally, some exfoliating toners contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, which can help to hydrate and soothe the skin. This is important for those with sensitive skin, as it can help to reduce redness and irritation.
Overall, when choosing an exfoliating toner for sensitive skin, it is important to look for one that is gentle and non-irritating, and to patch test before use.
What are the best exfoliating toners for sensitive skin available on the market?
Exfoliating toners can be a great addition to a skincare routine as they help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, leaving your skin looking brighter and smoother. However, for those with sensitive skin, it can be challenging to find an exfoliating toner that doesn't cause irritation.
One of the best exfoliating toners for sensitive skin is the Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. It contains salicylic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin without causing irritation. The formula is also fragrance-free and doesn't contain any harsh ingredients that could potentially irritate sensitive skin.
Another great option is the Pixi Glow Tonic. This toner contains glycolic acid, which helps to exfoliate the skin and improve its texture. It also contains aloe vera and ginseng, which help to soothe and hydrate the skin.
Lastly, the First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads are a gentle exfoliating option for those with sensitive skin. The formula contains lactic and glycolic acids, which work together to gently exfoliate the skin. The pads also contain soothing ingredients like cucumber and aloe vera to help calm any irritation.
Ultimately, when searching for an exfoliating toner for sensitive skin, it's important to look for formulas that are gentle, fragrance-free, and don't contain any harsh ingredients that could potentially irritate the skin.
What are the most effective exfoliating ingredients for sensitive skin?
Exfoliation is an important step in the skincare routine as it helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote cell turnover. However, for those with sensitive skin, choosing the right exfoliating ingredients is crucial to avoid irritation and inflammation. Some of the most effective exfoliating ingredients for sensitive skin are:
1. Lactic acid: This alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) is gentle on the skin and helps to exfoliate the surface without causing irritation or dryness.
2. Salicylic acid: This beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) is oil-soluble, making it effective in unclogging pores and reducing acne. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe sensitive skin.
3. Enzymes: Natural fruit enzymes like papaya and pineapple can help to gently exfoliate the skin without causing irritation. They work by breaking down the protein bonds that hold dead skin cells together.
4. Jojoba beads: These are gentle physical exfoliants that help to slough off dead skin cells without causing micro-tears or irritation.
When choosing exfoliating products for sensitive skin, it's important to look for gentle formulations that are free of harsh chemicals and fragrances. It's also best to start with a lower concentration and frequency to avoid over-exfoliation.
What exfoliating toners are suitable for sensitive skin prone to acne?
For people with sensitive skin prone to acne, it is important to choose exfoliating toners that are gentle and non-irritating. Here are some options that may work well for this skin type:
1. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant: This toner contains salicylic acid, which can help unclog pores and prevent breakouts. It is gentle enough for sensitive skin and can also help reduce redness and inflammation.
2. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: This toner contains glycolic acid, which can help exfoliate dead skin cells and improve skin texture. It is also alcohol-free and has a pH that is gentle on the skin.
3. Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum: This serum contains a blend of AHAs and BHAs, including glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids. It is designed to be used at night and can help improve skin tone, texture, and clarity without causing irritation.
It is important to note that even gentle exfoliating toners can cause sensitivity and irritation if overused or used in combination with other exfoliating products. It is best to start with a small amount and gradually increase frequency if tolerated well. It is also a good idea to consult with a dermatologist if you have concerns about using exfoliating products on sensitive skin.
Which exfoliating toners are free from harsh chemicals and fragrances?
There are several exfoliating toners available in the market that are free from harsh chemicals and fragrances. These toners are perfect for those with sensitive skin or anyone who wants to avoid using products with potentially harmful ingredients. One popular option is the Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, which contains salicylic acid, a gentle and effective exfoliator that can unclog pores and improve skin texture. Another great option is the Pixi Glow Tonic, which uses glycolic acid to exfoliate the skin and reveal a brighter complexion. Both of these toners are fragrance-free and contain no harsh chemicals, making them suitable for all skin types. Other brands to consider include The Ordinary, Cosrx, and First Aid Beauty, which all offer gentle exfoliating toners that are free from harsh ingredients. It's always important to read the ingredient list carefully and patch test new products before use, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Which exfoliating toners are recommended by dermatologists for sensitive skin?
Exfoliating toners are an essential part of a skincare routine as they help to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and brighten the complexion. However, for those with sensitive skin, finding the right exfoliating toner can be challenging as they can cause irritation and redness. Dermatologists recommend using gentle exfoliating toners that contain mild acids, such as lactic acid, mandelic acid, or PHA (polyhydroxy acid). These acids are less harsh than AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids) and are suitable for sensitive skin types.
Some of the recommended exfoliating toners for sensitive skin are:
1. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant
2. The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA
3. COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
4. Krave Beauty Kale-Lalu-yAHA
5. REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic
It is important to note that even with gentle exfoliating toners, it is recommended to start with a patch test and gradually increase usage to avoid any adverse reactions. Additionally, it is crucial to wear sunscreen daily as exfoliating toners can increase sun sensitivity.
